Last week British heptathlete Jessica Ennis was called fat. Understandably there has been a media uproar, and eating disorder groups have rushed to explain how they have their work cut out in the face of such stupidity. I would concur, except that I think this isn’t quite what happened.

I get frustrated listening to complaints about doctors. Frustrated because I wish we were doing our jobs better and got fewer complaints but also frustrated because so many of the complaints are from patients who haven’t been given a clear understanding of how GPs work. In our time-poor working lives, I want to advise professionals on how to get the most from that rare and valuable commodity: a GP appointment.

Nothing is more exciting in the world of science than a discovery that completely contradicts what we believe to be true and means the textbooks to have to be rewritten. As a doctor I found the recent announcement that ovaries may be able to produce an infinite number of eggs absolutely earth-shattering - and a little frightening, too.

Alcohol is our favourite drug by far. I know few people who don't drink, but while most of us use it for enjoyment, an increasing number use it as a crutch. Our drug laws become a mire of contradiction when one considers that alcohol causes significantly more harm than illegal drugs like heroin and cannabis.

Surprisingly, the latest advice about what is good for us does not involve a new exercise fad, a clever gadget or even a new superfood. Apparently now it is Facebook which might be good for our health - and may calm, reduce stress and tension, and lower heart rates. It can even trigger a happy high, according to the latest psychological study.

A story on a potential new type of male contraception has caused much mirth this week. A paper published in the Journal of Reproductive Biology and Endocrinology has revealed the effects of ultrasound waves on sperm production. Two 15-minute ultrasound sessions, two days apart, directed at the testicles seemed to be the best regime for optimum sperm suppression. But men shouldn't panic: so far testing has only been carried out on rats.

By now, most of us are already sick of reading about January weight-loss tips and fitness drives. But when people awake to the realisation that their bodies are in desperate need of an overhaul, instead of settling down to some hard work to change things for the better, many look for quick-fix solutions. The same applies to those diagnosed with illnesses where the prognosis is not good.

Worrying about weight and looks are preoccupations traditionally associated with the female sex, while the stereotypical man has a more nonchalant view of his physical appearance. But new research has revealed that men are conforming less to this stereotype - and perhaps are much more emotionally fragile than we previously thought.

I have always thought it telling of our reluctance to make significant changes to our lifestyles that we make resolutions but once a year. We start in earnest but if they fail, oh well, better wait until next year before trying again.